MEET OUR TEAM
TAIJALEE HARJU
salon owner + stylist
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invisible bead extension master technician
lived in color expert
blonde specialist
Taija here! Proud mother of a crazy handsome toddler. A Minnesota native who moved to Cedar Rapids in 2017 to pursue my dreams of being behind the chair! As a child of two stylists, I have always had an artistic eye and love for cosmetology.
My goal behind the chair is to make every client happy and feel beautiful inside and out, while maintaining healthy hair. When you sit in my chair we will always begin with a consultation, following a plan to figure out the best route for your hair going forward. Most importantly, as a client in my chair it's your time to shine, sit back, relax and make yourself at home!
Staying up to date on the newest trends and techniques is a PASSION of mine. Having attended many classes and personal training working next to educators, learning the ins and outs of color, cut, and product knowledge. My LOVE is invisible bead hand-tied extensions, blondes, lived in color, and bridal, but love to play with every color on the color wheel as well as french cutting!
While not behind the chair you can find me enjoying time with family and friends, traveling, and shopping...because who doesn't love to shop!
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I am currently accepting new color, and extension clients. I can't wait to make you feel pretty!
218-290-6739
SYLVIA EMANUEL
stylist
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invisible bead extension certified
lived in color expert
Hi, Sylvia here! Iowa native, outdoors obsessed + LOVE traveling with my family. Upon graduating from capri in 2018 i’ve enjoyed taking top of the line classes to stay up to date on the latest trends.
I focus on my specialties, Invisible Bead Extensions + lived-in color. though, I am also highly experienced in french cutting, blonding + other hand painted techniques.
While you’re in my chair, you’ll feel at ease knowing you’re with a stylist who takes pride in her craft and focuses on continuing education so you can look and feel your best.
When you see me outside of the salon you can catch me watching hair tutorials, trying a new restaurant or playing board games with my family.
I am currently accepting new color + extension clients!
319-929-9217
SOFIA RODRIGUEZ
stylist
lived in color expert
Hey, it’s Sofia! I love spending time with my family and creating new memories as the family continues to grow! Im always down to watch a good Netflix show as well as try new foods! Oh and shopping...lots of shopping!
I’ve always had a passion of doing hair since the age of 7. I decided to graduate high school a semester early, as I was very eager to start my career! Making people feel more confident with their hair has always been a goal of mine. I take pride in keeping up with up coming trends and listening to my clients hair needs. I really enjoy doing lived in colors, as well as regrowth applications!
​I am currently accepting new clients! You can find me at the salon Tuesday through Saturday. Can't wait to see you in my chair!
319-640-7551
JAIDEN MCVAY
stylist
lived in blonding expert
Hi, I'm Jaiden!! I have been behind the chair for 2 years! I've developed a love for lived in blonding, and helping clients learn about making their hair healthier!
Prior to going to school I worked in a salon for two years before graduating in 2021 from Capri in Cedar Rapids.
Outside of work you can find me working at my part time job, Daisys Garage, or staying home hanging out with my sisters and pets!
I am always accepting new clients and am in the salon Tuesday - Saturday!
319-826-4159
KENZIE RITTER
stylist
color specialists
Hello, it's Kenzie! I've been a licensed cosmetologist for one year now. I reside in a quaint town just outside of Cedar Rapids, embracing the charm of small-town life. My boyfriend and I share our home with our two adorable dogs, Lucas and Bentley. Outside of my passion for cosmetology, I accompany my boyfriend as he races oval dirt tracks across the US, indulging my love for travel whenever possible.
My favorite services thus far include blonding and creating live-in colors. I specialize in a variety of haircuts for clients of all ages, ensuring each one receives a customized outcome that they'll adore. Currently, I'm welcoming new clients and would be thrilled to have you in my chair.
319-550-1625
ANNA BENDIXEN
stylist
lived in color specialist
Hi there, I’m Anna! Originally from Maquoketa, a small town near Cedar Rapids. I moved here in 2022 for college at Capri College and loved it so much that I decided to stay. Now, I live in Hiawatha with my boyfriend and our two pets, Winston and Freddy.
Outside of work at the salon, I enjoy hanging out with friends, family and working part-time as a server. I love going to the beach, listening to live music, and eating Italian food. But what I love most is making people feel good! I’ve always enjoyed doing hair and makeup for friends, so becoming a hairstylist was a natural choice.
I specialize in coloring hair and staying up-to-date with the latest trends. You can schedule an appointment with me on Sundays, Mondays, or Wednesdays. Looking forward to meeting you!
563-221-2053
MARINA MESCH
stylist
blonde specialist
Hi I’m Marina! A proud native of this area, I graduated from Capri in Cedar Rapids, and what began as a hobby has blossomed into a passionate career as a hairstylist. I've always had a keen sense of creativity, which I channel into the art of hair, particularly specializing in blonding. Always staying up to date on the latest trends. My primary aim is for you to leave my chair feeling your absolute best!
Beyond the salon, I thrive on travel and new experiences, constantly seeking adventures. Equally, I cherish moments spent with loved ones.
Exciting news—I am now welcoming new clients on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays at the salon. I look forward to meeting you and ensuring your time in my chair is unforgettable!
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319-899-1260
LAUREN KNOX
stylist
color specialist
Hi, it's Lauren! Being behind the chair is truly my passion, and I've developed a deep love for delicate, lived-in blonding services and creating dimensional, rich brunettes! Prior to discovering my passion for the beauty industry, I worked full-time in a pharmacy, yearning for a creative outlet. Little did I know, this desire would evolve into such a beautiful career. Outside the salon, I adore spending time with my fiancé and our three fur-babies, whether we're taking leisurely walks, preparing and enjoying delicious meals, unwinding with our favorite shows, or basking in the sun on our hammocks! I'm currently welcoming new guests and eagerly look forward to having you in my chair!
319-558-9953
LAURYN KRAKLIO
stylist
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invisible bead extension certified
lived in color specialist
Lauryn here! Capri college grad with 6 years of experience specializing in invisible bead extensions and lived-in colors. My chair is your safe haven – a place where you can relax, chat about anything on your mind, and leave feeling like a new person! Hair care is the ultimate form of self-care in my opinion so even if you aren’t up for washing your hair I’m your girl for the job!
I’ve always been passionate about this industry and strive to further my knowledge by continuing education to be up to date with the latest trends!
Growing up between the sunny vibes of San Diego and Cedar Rapids, I’ve developed a love for travel, music and concerts, and spending quality time with my boyfriend.
I can’t wait to meet you and create some magic together!
319-640-5489